Roulette Strategy for UK Players - How to Improve Your Game

How Roulette Works

Understanding the basics is the first step to success when playing roulette. The word “roulette” is a French term meaning “little wheel.” Originating from France in the 18th century, roulette is centred around a small spinning wheel with coloured and numbered pockets. The ball is dropped on the wheel, and players predict the pocket in which it will land. 

Depending on the number of pockets, Roulette has two main types. Each type features a different house edge, which influences the payout odds.

 Each pocket is coloured red or black, but 0 and 00 are green. Roulette has two betting types;

1. Inside bets: Wagers on specific numbers or combinations of numbers. For example, you can bet that the ball will land on a single number like 18. Or wager a split bet where the ball will land between 21 and 22.

2. Outside bets: This is a wager on categories of numbers, such as dozens, columns, high/low, red/black, and odd/even. You can bet that the ball will land on red.

Why Strategy Works

Because roulette is a banking game, all players wager against the house. Compared to other casino games, roulette has a higher house edge. As a result, the advantage is with the house. This is why players employ various strategies and systems to minimise the house edge and manage their risks. 

However, while systems can work in the short term, no system can consistently beat the house in the long term. This is because roulette is a game of chance with fixed odds, and betting systems do not determine where the ball will land. Each spin is independent of the others. 

Using strategies helps you manage your bankroll and structure your gameplay. It makes the entire experience more enjoyable. It also enables you to stay disciplined and control how you bet aggressively. 

For instance, playing French roulette rather than European roulette could improve your chances. While European and French roulette have the same pockets, their house edges may differ. Instead of a house edge of 2.7, French roulette could have a 1.35 house edge on even-money bets like odds/even and red/black. There are two possible ways.

• La Partage: If you wager an even-money bet and the ball lands on 0, you'll lose half of your bet. 

• En Prison: If the ball lands on 0, your even-money bet is imprisoned. You'll get it back if it wins on your next spin.

Top Roulette Strategies Explained

There are strategies you can use to potentially enhance your roulette game. Our experts have highlighted some of these below to help you structure your play.

Martingale Strategy

Although it is controversial, the Martingale system works for some players. They double their bet after every loss until they win. The strategy ensures that players make a profit if they eventually win. 

The Martingale system is simple to understand and easy to implement. It benefits players with a large bankroll. Otherwise, it is only effective in the short term because punters might experience a losing streak without enough funds in their bankroll to recover their losses. Furthermore, some casinos impose table betting limits to prevent players from recouping their losses.

Reverse Martingale (Paroli)

Instead of doubling your bets after every loss, you can double your bets after every win. Also known as Paroli, the reverse Martingale system is less risky compared to the Martingale strategy. 

If you start with a bet of £5, you will double it to £10 if you win that bet. Another win will see you increase your bet to £20. Once you lose, return to the original starting stake of £5.

The reverse Martingale ensures you're not chasing your losses. It helps you to maximise profits while only risking your initial stake.  

D'Alembert Strategy

The D'Alembert system is another approach suitable for even-money bets. Its core principle is that wins and losses will eventually balance out. To use this strategy, you increase your bet by one unit after every loss and decrease it by one unit after every win. However, you should never wager less than your original stake. 

The D'Alembert strategy is easy to implement. It aims to reduce risks compared to the Martingale system. Additionally, it is an effective way to manage your finances because it does not require a large bankroll.

Fibonacci Strategy

The Fibonacci strategy is also ideal for even-money bets in roulette, blackjack, craps, and baccarat. Using it involves a low to moderate level of risk. This approach operates by following the Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55), where each number is the sum of the two previous ones. 

To use this strategy, select a starting unit, such as £5. Use the Fibonacci sequence to determine your bet size after each loss. When you win, move back two steps in the sequence; after a loss, move forward one step. The aim is that each win helps to recover all previous losses.

Flat Betting

Flat betting is the simplest betting strategy to understand. It's also the safest system because it helps players to stay in control. With flat betting, you wager the same amount every time, regardless of wins or losses. There is no doubling, chasing, or progression, but consistent and steady play. 

The betting system is effective for managing your bankroll. It's also easy to track and measure wins and losses over time. Flat betting is ideal for all games where you need to manage your bankroll. Therefore, it's a strategy that works across the betting industry, including roulette and sports betting.

Labouchère System

The Labouchère system is another effective strategy for placing even-money bets in roulette. It follows a structured pattern, but is more suitable for experienced players. Also known as the split Martingale or cancellation system, you'll need to write down a sequence of numbers that total the profit you're aiming for. 

For example, 1-2-3-4 sums to £10. Your bet is the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence (1+4=£5). If you win, you cross out the first and last numbers to get 2-3. Your new bet will then be 2 + 3 = £5. If you lose, add the lost bet to the end of the sequence to have 1-2-3-4-5. So, your next bet will be 1 + 5 = £6.

Pros and Cons of Using a Strategy

While roulette strategies are effective, they're not guaranteed to work. There are still a few downsides to consider. Find the pros and cons of using a roulette strategy below.

Tips for UK Players

Now that you know the different roulette strategies, it's time to place your bet. Before doing so, review the tips below to make the most of your wager.

Choose European or French Roulette

European and French roulette have a lower house edge than American roulette. While American roulette features a 5.26 house edge, the European and French variants have a 2.7 house edge. A lower house edge reduces the house's advantage, increasing your chances of winning. 

French roulette can have an even lower house edge of 1.35% due to the use of En Prison or La Partage rules on even-money bets, such as red/black and odd/even. Therefore, avoid American roulette whenever possible.

Pick UK-Licensed Casinos

We recommend only placing roulette bets at UKGC-licensed casinos. Your safety is paramount, and only regulated platforms can provide that assurance. They offer player protection, fairer gaming, and secure payment methods. 

Look out for responsible gambling tools supported by GamStop. Your casino should provide tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion. You should also verify that the casino has strong SSL encryption to ensure your financial information remains secure. 

While some offshore online casinos accept UK players, we only recommend registering with a UK-licensed casino. Your protection in the event of a dispute is not guaranteed with an offshore operator.

Use Demo Versions

Why not try out roulette for free before risking your own money? This is especially important for beginners. If you're new to roulette betting, look for online casinos that offer a demo version. This helps you learn the basics of the game, including how different strategies work. The aim is also to see if the game is worth your money. 

However, note that you cannot withdraw winnings from demo versions. Additionally, they require no emotional investment since your money isn't at stake.

Set Win/Loss Limits

To avoid chasing your losses, set win or loss limits. The purpose of betting is to enjoy yourself. Therefore, it is advisable to keep a separate budget from your personal funds. Setting win or loss limits helps you manage your budget and play for a longer period. 

You can set your limit daily, weekly, or monthly. Once you reach your limit, take a break and wait until your next budget cycle. Players who can manage their winnings and losses will stay in control and avoid the temptation to chase losses. 

Use Bonus Offers Wisely

Bonuses help boost your bankroll. When you claim bonuses, you can play for longer without risking your own money. Many casinos offer free bets, no-deposit bonuses, reload bonuses, and cashback. 

However, you must use them wisely. Many promotions have hidden terms and conditions, so make sure to read the fine print before accepting any offer. Bonuses often come with game restrictions. Most of the time, roulette only counts between 5 and 10% of the wagering requirements. Remember to check the expiry dates and maximum bet limits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We understand you're eager to start placing that bet. However, it's easy to make mistakes and fall prey to poor betting decisions. Here are common mistakes to avoid when using roulette strategies.

• Lack of understanding of the system: You need to have a clear understanding of a system before using it. If you don't understand how Labouchère works, for example, then refrain from using it. The simplest strategy to understand is flat betting. We recommend sticking to it if others are difficult. 

• Chasing losses: It's pretty easy to chase your losses with the Martingale system. That's why the strategy remains contentious. Avoid strategies that might lead to further losses.

• Ignoring table limits: Most casinos set table limits to prevent players from using certain strategies. Some also do this to combat irresponsible gambling. Paying attention to the limit helps you select the right strategy.

• Playing at an unlicensed casino: Avoid playing at an online casino that does not hold a reputable license. We recommend only platforms regulated by the UKGC.

• Believing in “due” numbers: Also known as “The Gambler's Fallacy,” it is a false belief that previous outcomes will influence the next one. Always remember that roulette is a game of chance, and each spin is independent of the others.

You May Also Be Interested In...

• Guide to Martingale Betting Strategy - Check out our guide here.

• How to Bet on Wimbledon Like a Pro - Check out our guide here.

• How to Bet In-Play During Wimbledon - Check out our guide here.

Responsible Gambling 

Along with using roulette strategies to maximise your bets, remember to gamble responsibly. Register with an online casino that allows you to set deposit and time limits. Some also offer win and loss limits. 

All UKGC-regulated platforms facilitate self-exclusion through GAMSTOP, allowing you to take a break from gambling. During your self-exclusion, you won't be able to access any UK-licensed gambling sites. Seek additional support by signing up with GamCare and GambleAware.

It is also mandatory for all casinos to verify your identity. You must upload a government-issued ID to verify that you're at least 18 years old.